Interface Defeat of Long-Rod Projectiles by Ceramic Armor
Abstract
An investigation has been conducted to guide the development of ceramic armor that protects against long-rod projectiles launched at ballistic-ordnance velocities. Studies have concentrated on protection by diverting the projectile, but have also considered protection by maintaining a high resistance to penetration. A projectile is diverted by promoting a lateral flow of projectile erosion products at the ceramic, which minimizes stress and microdamage in the impinged area of the ceramic. Some resistance to lateral flow provides dynamic frontal support for the ceramic, and the projectile is fully consumed by lateral flow even though marginal rear support permits moderate macrodamage. The first part of the investigation has examined ceramic damage and the influences of materials, dimensions, target designs, and other factors, such as impact velocity and target obliquity. The second part of the investigation has briefly considered layered target designs that achieve protection by maintaining the ceramic element s high resistance to penetration. The interplay of material properties and characteristics and target designs must be further investigated to determine the potential for future ballistic armor designs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA609092
Entities
People
- Edward J. Rapacki Jr.
- George E. Hauver
- Paul H. Netherwood
- Ralph F. Benck
Organizations
- United States Army Research Laboratory